(a) In a municipal infraction proceeding: (1) the District Court shall confirm that the defendant has received a copy of and understands the charges; (2) the defendant may enter a plea of guilty or not guilty; (3) the District Court shall apply the evidentiary standards provided by law or rule for the trial of a civil case; (4) the defendant may: (i) cross–examine witnesses; (ii) produce evidence or witnesses on the defendant’s own behalf; (iii) testify; and (iv) be represented by counsel of the defendant’s choice and at the defendant’s expense; and (5) the municipality has the burden to prove by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant has committed the infraction. (b) The District Court may: (1) enter a verdict of guilty or not guilty; or (2) before entering a verdict, place the defendant on probation.
Maryland Legal Code